The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted raids at approximately 15 sites across Mumbai, West Bengal, and Delhi-NCR as part of its ongoing investigation into the Mahadev app case. Allegations suggest involvement of high-ranking politicians and bureaucrats from Chhattisgarh and other regions in this money laundering scheme. These actions come under the purview of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The probe agency has arrested nine individuals in connection with the Mahadev app case so far. It is believed that the app was used to generate illicit funds, which were then purportedly utilized for paying bribes to politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh. The ED had previously summoned several Bollywood celebrities to ascertain any potential links with the online betting platform and associated transactions.
Sourabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal, identified as key promoters of the alleged illegal betting and gaming app, are among those against whom the ED has filed charge sheets. The agency has conducted multiple raids in connection with this case prior to the recent ones. The estimated proceeds of crime in this case amount to around Rs 6,000 crore, according to the ED’s assessments.
In a significant development, Nitish Diwan, purportedly a close associate of Mahadev app promoters Chandrakar and Uppal, was apprehended under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on February 15. Diwan, previously involved in organizing the IIFA film festival on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi in 2022, is now under scrutiny in connection with this case.
Furthermore, in October 2023, the Maharashtra Cyber unit had interrogated rapper-singer Badhshah in relation to the Mahadev app case. These developments underscore the widespread nature of the investigation and its impact on various sectors, including Bollywood and the entertainment industry.
The ED’s relentless pursuit in the Mahadev app case reflects the government’s commitment to combatting financial crimes and corruption at all levels. As the probe progresses, more revelations are anticipated, shedding light on the intricate web of illicit activities surrounding this high-profile case.
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